Progressive Order of West Opens Biennial Convention in Phila

July 23, 1929

Philadelphia, Pa. (Jul. 22)

With more than 250 delegates and visitors, representing a score of cities, in attendance, the Progressive Order of the West, insurance fraternal order, opened its 26th convention at the Benjamin Franklin Hotel here Sunday. The Order, which was founded in 1896, has been holding bi-ennial conventions in recent years. The largest delegations are here from Chicago and St. Louis. The convention will last until Tuesday evening.

Today’s sessions were featured by the rendition of the Grand Master’s message by Joseph Schiller, of Chicago. Mr. Schiller reported that “two years ago there was dissension in our ranks, created by people who received honors at your hands. Today I am happy to report that that condition does not exist. We are all united to assist in the growth and uplift of your Order.”

He praised his various official colleagues. urged continued organization of Ladies Auxiliaries; recommended abolition of so-called “state boards” and establishment instead of “city central bodies” to act “for the best interests of the Order;” praised the organization’s monthly bulletin and its editor, William H. Goldman, and assured the delegates that “all investments are amply secured and properly safe-guarded.” He urged continued support for Zionist endeavor and also for the Ort and People’s Tool campaigns. A recommendation was made that “legislation be enacted to issue policies in the sum of one hundred dollars, in order to make it possible for a number of people who are not inter-

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ested in the insurance feature, to join our order.”

The delegates adopted a budget of approximately $44,000 for the next two years. It was stated that the Order now has nearly 12,000 members and a Reserve Fund of over half a million dollars. Sol Goldman, of St. Louis, headed the committee on the budget and Meyer Kranzberg, also of St. Louis, was chairman of the Credentials committee.

The opening session of the convention was greeted by William D. Thatcher, assistant secretary to Mayor Mackey; Abraham Berkowitz, representing District No. 3 of the B’nai Brith; Martin O. Levy, grand secretary of the I. O. B. B.; Louis Vilentchik, third deputy grand master of the I. O. B. A. and Murray Le Vine representing the Hias. Greetings also were extended by Rabbi Oscar Levin, of Philadelphia; Morris Stein, chairman of convention committee and Samuel B. Levinson, chairman of arrangements committee. A group of children from Young Judaea entertained with Hebrew and Yiddish songs. A memorial service for departed members was held during the afternoon and the delegates upon hearing of the death of Mrs. B. L. Levinthal, wife of the Philadelphia rabbi, adopted resolutions of regret and condolence.